Which metal detector is better to buy?
Let's consider the main criteria for choosing a metal detector.
Detection depth depends on the correct ratio of the coil frequency and the soil interference compensation technologies used in the device.
The domestic market offers models operating at the following frequencies:
- Up to 2.5 kHz – devices with low sensitivity, which are suitable for searching for large metal objects at a depth of up to 50 cm.
- 7 kHz – inexpensive devices with a maximum detection depth of up to 1 m.
- From 10 to 20 kHz - very advanced devices that allow you to find metals with low conductivity in highly mineralized soils at a depth of about 2 m.
In expensive professional-level metal detectors, the operating frequency range can be adjusted.
Soil balance - this function allows you to ignore interference caused by soil structure or contaminants. In budget models, manual adjustment is more common; automatic ground balancing can be seen in mid-range and premium models.
Detection method. Modern devices use VLF technology, which makes it possible to distinguish ferrous metal from non-ferrous metal and non-ferrous metals from each other.
More advanced models are equipped with VFLEX technology, which significantly increases the detection depth and recognizes metals better.
You can read more about choosing metal detectors in our article: how to choose a metal detector.
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The best entry-level metal detectors (up to 20 thousand rubles)
Models in the lower price category use the simplest detection methods. Characteristic features of budget detectors are a search depth not exceeding 50 cm and average discredit rates, which make it possible to distinguish ferrous metals from non-ferrous ones.
Minelab X-Terra 305 is the most functional budget model
4.9
★★★★★
editorial assessment
92%
buyers recommend this product
See review▶
A reliable device, perfectly adapted to searching for small objects, equipped with high-frequency coils. There is the ability to adjust the ground, which means that searching on difficult soils will be effective.
Detuning electrical noise allows you to work in close proximity to other metals and high-voltage power lines. And the 12-tone discrimination scale makes it much easier to exclude groups of unwanted objects.
Advantages:
- High frequency coils;
- An excellent set of functions and capabilities for this price segment;
- Precise discrimination;
- Long time of continuous operation.
Flaws:
- Weak attachment of the coil to the rod.
Minelab X-Terra will be a good choice for both a novice search engine and an experienced user. Despite its low cost, it is quite functional.
Fisher F-22 - metal detector with increased sensitivity
4.8
★★★★★
editorial assessment
89%
buyers recommend this product
See review▶
A good entry-level metal detector, equipped with an electronic detection system and automatic ground balancing.
The presence of three pre-installed programs makes it easy to search for jewelry, gold, antiques made of ferrous and non-ferrous metals.
The device also provides a fourth program - for combining user settings for volume, sensitivity and discrimination.
The display shows the depth of the object and the exception scale. The device is equipped with a speaker and a built-in headphone jack.
Advantages:
- Light weight;
- Sufficient set of functions;
- Electronic detection system;
- Ability to save custom settings.
Flaws:
- Difficulties in metal identification.
The Fisher F-22 is an excellent tool for periodically searching for coins in low mineralization soils.
Deteknix Quest Q20 – good for searching in land and water
4.8
★★★★★
editorial assessment
88%
buyers recommend this product
See review▶
An entry-level three-program metal detector is designed to search for objects made of ferrous and non-ferrous metals. It can work not only on the ground, but also in water with the coil submerged up to 3 meters.
Sophisticated software and manual adjustment of soil balance provide a high level of discrimination. And after the recent update of the model, the operating frequency of the coils has also increased.
The ergonomic design of the device is equally convenient for left-handers and right-handers. The rod here is three-sectional, and its length is adjusted with special clamps.
Nice bonuses from the manufacturer: pin-point function, built-in flashlight and wired headphones included. The metal detector is powered by a built-in battery with charging via a mini-USB interface.
Advantages:
- Housing with a high degree of moisture protection;
- Good discrimination;
- Informative display, plus sound identification;
- Effective in highly mineralized soils and sea water;
- Ability to set custom settings.
Flaws:
- There is a risk of cable breakage due to its poor location.
Quest Q20 is a universal metal detector that can be used at shallow depths, even underwater. It just requires careful handling.
Teknetics Alpha 2000 – detector with adjustable search depth
4.7
★★★★★
editorial assessment
88%
buyers recommend this product
See review▶
The entry-level model is suitable for searching for small objects made of ferrous and non-ferrous metals. The effectiveness of the device is ensured by 3 discrimination modes (All-Metal, Notch, Target ID) and 10 levels of indicating the search depth.
All information is displayed on an LCD display with two headphone jacks. The metal detector is powered by a 9-volt Kronov battery.
Advantages:
- Excellent ergonomics;
- Several discrimination modes;
- Sound three-tone indication;
- Setting the search depth;
- American assembly;
- Simple and intuitive controls.
Flaws:
- No ground balancing;
- Impressive dimensions.
In essence, the Alpha 2000 is the same Fisher metal detector, only more understandable and easier to learn, which is especially important for beginning treasure hunters.
Garrett ACE 250 – a device for beginners
4.6
★★★★★
editorial assessment
85%
buyers recommend this product
See review▶
A good ground model of a metal detector, which enjoys well-deserved popularity among novice searchers.
The main features of the device are automatic ground balancing, six operating modes and microprocessor detection technology.
An informative display, built-in speaker and headphone output will allow even a beginner to easily cope with the search.
Advantages:
- Compact size and light weight;
- Digital detection technology;
- There is an adjustment of the coil sensitivity;
- Automatic ground balancing.
Flaws:
- Low moisture protection;
- Small detection depth.
The Garrett ACE 250 is suitable only for beginner searchers who use the device as entertainment. However, it will help you understand all the features of such equipment, after which you can move on to more serious detectors.
Which metal detector should a beginner choose?
choosing a metal detector for a beginner
Greetings, readers of the treasure hunter's blog. Today I want to share my thoughts on a topic that is of great interest to all novice diggers - seekers. Namely, which detector to choose, because before there was little choice, but now one’s eyes run wide from the abundance and variety of brands and models, this is Minelab, and the famous Asya, Ak Sorex and many, many other famous and well-known brands.
Remembering myself 3 years ago, I can say that I didn’t have much of a choice, I had a certain amount of money and not a penny more, so my choice came down to a very narrow range of detectors, namely the ace 150 or minelab t34. In principle, both detectors are entry-level devices, so I had to go into details and differences. I read a lot of forums, reviews, and looked at the finds made using these 2 entry-level detectors. Still, the minelab t34 took over, I don’t know why, most likely the brand itself played a role, the plus is that its ease of use is much higher, the discrimination is better, the Pin point alignment mode is also very good, and later it helped me very often. The one I chose minelab t34 is the legendary entry-level model from minelab, even now, 3 years later, they are still very popular and relevant. For example, people always ask me to sell my indestructible T34 grater, which I bought 3 years ago. The trick is that back then they were of better quality than they are now. After all, now most metal detectors are assembled in China, but mine are assembled in the Netherlands. So it makes sense to buy used detectors, in working condition, of course.
So, gradually, we came to the exciting question - which metal detector should a beginner choose , who has never been on a cop and doesn’t even know whether he likes the process of copping or whether it’s not his job. This is where the dilemma lies. After all, judge for yourself, very often on forums I see advertisements like “I’m selling a detector, it’s been used for 1 month.” Such advertisements are usually given by those people who at first thought that having bought a metal detector, they would dig day and night, but after visiting a couple of times, they lost interest in a cop, realizing that this is absolutely not their occupation. So it made sense for them to buy an expensive, sophisticated device. Here I can advise one thing - if you are new to coping and decide to try yourself in this business, then first buy an inexpensive entry-level metal detector. This device also searches very well, of course it is inferior to expensive models in terms of depth and discrimination, but it is quite enough for a beginner. Personally, I’ve been traveling with my inseparable grater 34 for 3 years now, although I cherish the hope of soon acquiring my dream - minelab x terra 705. So first take an entry-level device, try yourself and if you like the hobby of treasure hunting, then you can sell your first device without any problems , add money and buy something more powerful. For myself, I decided that I would buy exclusively Minelab metal detectors; the reviews about them were decent, and my fellow detectives and I tried everything from the x terra line. Satisfied.
Of course, if money is not a problem for you, then you can immediately buy a cool device. As one person I know did. He’s actually far from a cop, but something struck him and he decided that he would go and dig. I bought myself a minelab t705, went on one trip with us and abandoned the matter. Well, he just doesn’t have time, then he has some other things to do, in general, he’s a busy man. Meanwhile, the detector lies idle in the closet. Things like this, ehh I wish I had something like this, I would accumulate valuables.
So which metal detector to buy is up to you to decide. The initial devices of all models (Ace 150, Ace 250, fisher f2) are approximately equal and practically no different. The price is about the same, the depth is the same, so think and see. If you decide to immediately buy a cool device, then I can recommend only one, the most optimal in my opinion - minelab t705 , just a fairy tale, not a device. This is my dream, imagine that in 3 years I still haven’t bought it for myself. All the time the money is needed somewhere other than for my hobby. First repair, then the car, then the fifth, the tenth. Well, I hope that soon I will acquire it for myself and then all the treasures will become mine. Good luck on the cop. Just look at the photos of the treasures found, they are beautiful.
The best mid-level metal detectors (up to 35 thousand rubles)
Mid-class models are high-tech devices that are characterized by high search accuracy, impressive detection depth, good discrimination, as well as a solid set of functions and various settings.
GARETT ACE 350 EURO – ideal price/quality ratio
4.9
★★★★★
editorial assessment
95%
buyers recommend this product
See review▶
Garett Euro is the European analogue of the American model ACE 250. The main differences between the two metal detectors concern the discrimination of metals, as well as the diameter of the coil (it is larger here) and the depth scale - it was converted to centimeters.
The device is universal and has 5 preset search programs, a pin-point mode, automatic ground balancing, and a three-tone sound indication. The detector is powered by two AA batteries.
Advantages:
- Simplicity and reliability of design;
- The ability to search at greater depths than its American counterpart;
- Russified menu;
- Carrying backpack and electronics case included.
Flaws:
- Expanded discrimination based on ferrous metals has led to a reduced segmentation of non-ferrous metals.
Despite the weak division in non-ferrous metals, the Euro-version of ACE will find its fans - mainly among those who are just looking for large iron objects.
Detech EDS Gold Catcher – deep search for jewelry
4.8
★★★★★
editorial assessment
90%
buyers recommend this product
See review▶
This detector is “tailored” to detect gold and jewelry, and it has an extensive list of preset discrimination modes for these purposes. Gold Catcher can operate at high frequencies, which greatly simplifies the search for small objects and increases the depth of their detection.
The manufacturer has provided here for switching between normal and deep search modes, sensitivity adjustment, automatic manual balancing and pin point. The device comes with two 6″ DD and 10″ DD coils, as well as six AA batteries with a charger.
Advantages:
- Excellent functionality;
- Dual-mode search;
- Working with higher frequencies;
- Rich equipment;
- Possibility of connecting wireless headphones.
Flaws:
- There are no pre-installed search programs.
Detech EDS is designed for experienced users and is rightfully considered one of the best detectors in the mid-price segment. However, in terms of its capabilities and functionality, it is quite similar to a professional model.
White's Treasure Pro – autonomous and reliable detector
4.7
★★★★★
editorial assessment
88%
buyers recommend this product
See review▶
This metal detector is positioned by the manufacturer as a professional one. However, the main functionality of the device is limited by the presence of only 5 preinstalled search programs.
But there are plenty of additional goodies here: there is graphic and numerical discrimination, 8-tone sound, automatic ground balancing and sensitivity adjustment. The main thing is that the device can operate for more than 20 hours on just two AA batteries.
Advantages:
- Waterproof coil and control unit;
- Accurate determination of the depth of an object;
- Long battery life;
- High quality build.
Flaws:
- The rod is a little loose.
White's Treasure Pro is the senior model in the manufacturer's line. It has very interesting functionality and excellent autonomy. And most importantly, the device is not afraid of moisture, which expands the possibilities of its use.
Minelab X-Terra 705 – with VFLEX technology
4.7
★★★★★
editorial assessment
87%
buyers recommend this product
See review▶
The main advantage of this device is the ability to operate at three frequencies and the advanced VFLEX technology, which significantly increases the detection depth and quality of metal recognition.
Among the most useful functions of the device are: 6 preset search programs, several discrimination modes, automatic and manual ground balance, frequency shift for tuning out interference.
There is also a CoinsPlus mode, which stabilizes the detector readings on highly mineralized soils. The metal detector is powered by 4 AA batteries.
Advantages:
- Rich functionality;
- Two modes of pin-point operation (target position and dimensions);
- VFLEX technology;
- Compatible with all types of Minelab coils;
- Possibility of searching in multi-tone mode without turning on the discriminator.
Flaws:
- Low accuracy of the pin point on the original reel.
Overall, the X-Terra 705 turned out to be very functional and smart in its own way. It is most often used for beach searches for small objects.
Fisher F44-11DD - the most popular model
4.5
★★★★★
editorial assessment
82%
buyers recommend this product
See review▶
The waterproof, compact and inexpensive metal detector offers 5 operating modes with user settings saved, adjustable sound identification, 9 discrimination programs, automatic ground balance and target designation.
All parameters are displayed on the LCD display. The device comes with an 11” DD coil, which can be powered by 2 AA batteries for 15 hours.
Advantages:
- Compactness;
- Light weight - only 1 kg;
- Not a bad set of functions.
- FeTone function to change the sound of ferrous metal.
Flaws:
- Ill-conceived cable fastening from the reel to the block;
- Small detection depth (maximum 80 cm, and for coins only 35).
The Fisher F44-11DD offers a decent detector for experienced treasure hunters. The main thing is that its price is affordable for you.
The best metal detectors on the Russian market
We present the ten best devices that are in stable demand on the Russian metal detector market.
Bounty Hunter Tracker IV
Bounty Hunter Tracker IV in the rating of metal detectors
This device operates at low frequencies and is designed for searching on the ground; it has all the functions necessary for a beginner. The audio signal can be played through headphones. Two Krona batteries ensure stable operation. There is automatic ground balancing, discrimination, and tone identification. It can detect objects at a depth of up to 80 centimeters. The disadvantages of this design include weak discrimination of the device.
Minelab Go-Find 20
Minelab Go-Find 20 in the rating of metal detectors
This detector is produced by Australians. Functionally similar to the model described above. It is very lightweight and has a telescopic pole with an adjustable armrest. There is a charge indication and adjustment of sound parameters, but discrimination is also very weak. True, there are icons of cans, lids, and precious metals. But the device does not distinguish between foil and precious metals. Good recognition at the level of ferrous metals. Search depth up to 80 centimeters. As a detector for beginners, it is considered one of the best. Operates at a frequency of 7.8 kHz. Powered by four AA batteries.
Garrett ACE 150
Garrett ACE 150 in the rating of metal detectors
There are three buttons on the device remote control: power on, sensitivity adjustment and search program. There is an indicator of the depth of the object. The device is charged for 40 hours of continuous operation. There are functions of discrimination, ground balancing and tonal identification of objects. The reel is waterproof. But the price of this model is quite high, which scares off potential first-time buyers.
Fisher F11" DD
Fisher F11” DD in the rating of metal detectors
This metal detector belongs to the middle price category. This ground search device has a pinpointer and is powered by one Krona battery, which lasts for three days. Operates at a frequency of 7.69 kHz. The display interface is clear and crisp. The armrest comfortably supports your hand. If we talk about disadvantages, the device has a too small menu of search programs. The device itself is lightweight, only 1.04 kg.
Bounty Hunter Land Ranger Pro
Bounty Hunter Land Ranger Pro in the rating of metal detectors
This low-frequency device has three search programs: for coins, jewelry and other metals. The display shows the depth of the object and the charge. There is a button to turn on the pinpointer. The device has very good discrimination, has tone search identification and ground balancing. The detector operates at a frequency of 7.81 kHz and weighs 1.3 kg. A waterproof ellipse-shaped coil is used.
Deteknix Quest Q40
Deteknix Quest Q40 in the rating of metal detectors
This device can no longer be called a device for beginners; rather, it is suitable for novice detectors who have some experience. It is equipped with a telescopic rod and an electronic control module. The functionality of the control unit is quite wide. Here you can find a charge indicator, adjustment of operating modes, depth and sensitivity indicators. The device is powered by its own battery, and the kit includes a charger and headphones. The electronic unit is moisture-resistant, just like the butterfly coil. The operating frequency of the device is 13 kHz. With a weight of 1.35 kg.
Fisher F 75
Fisher F 75 in the rating of metal detectors
An American ground detector that operates at medium frequencies and is intended for advanced detectors. The layout of the device is quite original. For example, the battery compartment for improved balance, as well as the built-in speaker, are located at the upper end of the bar under the armrest. Under the power supply there is a toggle switch that controls the connection and disconnection of the pin point. There is a noise detuning program and a sound search circuit. Its only drawback is the high price. The device operates at a frequency of 13 kHz. The power supply is designed for 4 AA batteries. The sensitivity of the metal detector can be adjusted. The DD-type coil has an elliptical shape and is protected from moisture with an extended search range.
Teknetics T2 LTD 11”DD + 5”DD
The device in question belongs to the line of professional metal detectors. Its design is similar to the previous device and has the same ergonomics, with the battery compartment and speaker located under the armrest. Just like in the Fisher model, the pin point is controlled by a toggle switch. But there are only two programs, one determines all metals, the second discriminates. But the discrimination function of the device gives very fine settings, which expands the search capabilities. In addition to built-in speakers and headphones, the device has a tone identification scale. The metal detector is equipped with two coils: one waterproof DD type 11 inches, and the second round 5 inches. Power is provided by four AA batteries. There are both manual and automatic ground balancing. The device operates at an average frequency of 13 kHz. Sensitivity can be adjusted. According to reviews from the owners, this is a very worthy professional search detector with wide capabilities for searching and identifying what is found. Everyone considers the high price of the device to be the only drawback.
XP Metal Detector Deus
XP Metal Detector Deus in the rating of metal detectors
This metal detector can, to some extent, be considered legendary, since it was the first to use a large number of unique settings that were not available in other devices. It has the widest range of search frequencies - from 3.7 to 27.7 kHz with a shift function, which makes it possible to search from the smallest objects to the deepest occurrence of large ones. The device is lightweight and compact, universal and multifunctional. Power is supplied from its own battery. You can adjust the sensitivity. The coil used is round and waterproof. The weight of the device is only 0.96 kg.
Minelab Excalibur II
Minelab Excalibur II in the rating of metal detectors
Actually, this device is designed for underwater searching. Although many professionals purchase it for ground search work. The frequency range is respectable. The device has 17 of them in the range from 1.5 to 25 kHz. The mass of the device, however, is 2.3 kg, but professional seekers have come to terms with this disadvantage due to its other advantages. Another disadvantage is that the device cannot search for ferrous metals, but few search engines are interested in them. But his settings for precious metals are simply beyond praise. The detector’s menu is Russian, which increases its popularity in our country. Since the device is deep-sea, it does not have a built-in speaker, but the headphone jack is protected from moisture penetration. The coil used is round from the DD line. At the same time, the price of the device is quite average, so the opportunity to buy it for professional searching is quite large.
All of the above metal detectors are in fairly steady demand among Russian consumers, because the ranks of metal detectors are constantly growing and are replenished with newcomers. Those who a few years ago made their first attempts on budget devices are now armed with more advanced detectors. Naturally, today’s beginners also need to first buy simple devices in order to eventually decide whether to remain at the amateur level or join the ranks of professional search engines. Even with a decrease in the total number of search places, there are still corners that have not yet been touched by fans of such work.
The best professional metal detectors
Such metal detectors are characterized by high sensitivity, high-quality multi-level discrimination and maximum detection depth.
The advanced technologies and solutions introduced here make it possible to find objects smaller than a match head under a very thick layer of soil.
XP DEUS – a technologically advanced and savvy detector
4.9
★★★★★
editorial assessment
72%
buyers recommend this product
See review▶
This device contains all the most advanced technologies available to professional metal detectors.
It can operate at 7 frequencies, in addition, the manufacturer has provided 9 search programs, manual and automatic ground balance, interference rejection, multi-tone identification, multi-level discrimination, VDI/TargetID and pin point modes.
All these capabilities are hidden in an ultra-light device weighing less than a kilogram. True, weight reduction was achieved only by wirelessly connecting the modules to the main control unit.
Advantages:
- Rich functionality;
- 7 available frequencies;
- Ability to record user settings;
- Built-in batteries;
- Port for software update.
Flaws:
- The kit comes with headphones, but they are not very comfortable.
The XP Deus has both admirers and detractors – the variation with an 11″ DD coil is especially unfortunate. But in general, this option is great for thoughtful research of a previously explored area rich in finds (single-yard, old settlements, etc.).
AKA Signum MFT 7272M – for searches at great depths
4.8
★★★★★
editorial assessment
91%
buyers recommend this product
See review▶
A multi-frequency professional metal detector from a domestic manufacturer is the result of a refinement of the legendary model 72/72.
MFT technology and tuning to the required frequency in the range from 1 to 30 kHz provide high-quality search at any depth, especially if you switch to the “Turbo” mode. For example, the device is capable of detecting 5 Soviet kopecks at a depth of up to 2.5 m.
There are also plenty of other improvements here: SFT reduces interference from ground mineralization by 10 times, and the S-algorithm significantly improves discrediting. Identifying finds has also become easier thanks to the visual display of objects.
Advantages:
- Large detection depth;
- Advanced functionality;
- Visual and sound identification;
- Customizable discrimination masks;
- Automatic ground balance;
- Two sensitivity adjustment modes: automatic and manual.
Flaws:
- It is noisy and quickly drains battery power.
AKA Signum is best suited for searching for antiquities and military items at great depths.
The best premium metal detector
There are few reliable manufacturers in the premium segment. Almost all of them are from the USA. The cost of metal detectors is high, but they are quite functional. They can be used to solve professional problems and to have fun while searching for treasures.
Important . Not everyone understands how much a good metal detector costs. The models mentioned above are difficult to use on a professional basis. If you need the most reliable gadget, then it is better to budget from 50,000 rubles.
Quite worthy gadgets are considered:
- FISHER GEMINI 3;
- MINELAB GPZ 7000;
- FISHER F75;
- AKA SIGNUM MFT 7272M.
However, these models are inferior to the French XP DEUS metal detector.
XP DEUS
This is an excellent professional device that is used by archaeologists and not only. It has a high price, so beginners are unlikely to decide to buy it. However, modern technologies are used here, due to which this gadget is noticeably superior to all those previously mentioned. There are no wires at all. All elements are connected to each other by air, which is an important feature. True, because of this, the charge is consumed faster. But it’s worth it, since reliability increases: you won’t be able to accidentally tear off the wire and say goodbye to the metal detector. Weight is less than 1 kg, there is an armrest, so it is convenient and pleasant to work.
XP DEUS
Characteristics:
- 4 frequencies;
- VLF;
- armrest;
- all minimal functions are present.
pros
- excellent sound indication;
- many ground balance settings;
- it is possible to save settings and change them as needed;
- Built-in batteries;
- There is USB for charging items and updating software.
Minuses
- some complain that the headphones are not very comfortable, but you can always buy others.
XP DEUS
Important . This is the most reliable and well-known device used by professionals. If you don’t want to spend a lot of money on it (and the cost is about 70,000 rubles), then you can consider other professional gadgets listed above.
